Statistical assets are the statistics, as well as the datasets that they are drawn from (where they exist).

Essential statistical assets are defined as a small, core subset of official statistical assets that, due to their application and importance, should be given priority in order to provide a high quality and trusted statistical service. Recognising those statistics considered to be most critical to Australia will help ensure their level of quality is maintained and enhanced over time.

Figure 1 provides a framework for all official statistics. This framework provides a visual representation of the range of official statistics, as the expectation is that the number of statistical assets that make up the ESA for Australia list will only be a small core subset of all official statistics.

FIGURE 1. FRAMEWORK OF OFFICIAL STATISTICS

Essential Statistical Assets for Australia

Other official statistics

Exist

Meets quality standards

Self-select to meet standards

Do not yet meet quality standards

(investment priority)

All other existing statistics

Do not exist

Statistical gap

(investment priority)

Statistical gap

The broader set of official statistics that do not make up the 2013 list of ESA for Australia are still important statistical assets, and will continue to be produced, managed and invested in when needed. Distinguishing those statistical assets that are “essential” aims to identify where investment in the statistical system will yield the broadest benefit.